How to Train a Service Dog: Deep pressure (also called DPT)*
Answer to say: Deep pressure Field (what the tags mean)
What the dog does: On cue, it lies across your lap, chest, or legs and holds steady weight on you, then gets off when you say so.
You'll need: patience, healthy low-calorie treats, short 5–10 minute sessions, a marker word or clicker, and a mat.
Steps:
- At home, teach a solid down-stay on a mat.
- Sit on the floor or a recliner and lure or shape the dog into placing its front half across your lap. Mark and reward calm stillness.
- Add a cue ("Lap") and an equally clear release ("Off"). IAADP says the dog must get off promptly when told.
- Build time a few seconds at a time. IAADP's goal is holding the position quietly for up to five minutes, with at least a minute's rest on all four paws before repeating a hind-legs "Lap Up."
- Move to the couch, a bench, and a car seat.
- Practice at pet-friendly places, on a bench or the floor.
Fit it to your dog: IAADP says a medium dog can lie on top of someone lying down, but a large dog may be too heavy in that position, and some dogs dislike it.
Common mistakes: no release cue; forcing a dog that isn't comfortable.
When to get a pro: if your dog is small or seems uneasy with the position.
Sources: IAADP, "Provide Deep Pressure for Calming Effect"; 4 Paws for Ability; Assistance Dogs International, Deep Pressure Therapy (2026) ("An assistance dog performs DPT by leaning against their handler or laying across the lap or chest on cue"); Canine Companions, Who We Serve ("applying deep pressure").
*The published sources only describe what the finished task looks like, so these steps are adapted from standard reward-based training methods.
Your condition stays private. When staff ask what your dog is trained to do, just name the task. See What to say when they ask.
These are general training tips, not a substitute for a qualified trainer, your doctor, or your vet. Stop any exercise that hurts or stresses your dog. Sources checked October 19, 2026.